This is not a new thread just repeating a question I asked a while ago and no response, even though 31 people viewed it. Maybe they don,t know?
Here goes again:- Does anyone know why I am having trouble when trying to open my 504 hard drive on my computer? I follow the instructions in the manual, but more often than not it does not load, am I too impatient? I wait a lot longer than I would expect to.

[frankmsl]

I have an Archos 504 with 160GB hard drive and have never had any problems with it. Therefore I am not sure why you are having problems. I had more Archos devices before and I can give you some tips that may help.

1. Connect the device to the same USB port you used when you connected the device the first time (when the PC installed it). I have had issues that the device is not correctly recognised on other USB ports, particualrly if they are on a hub or of a different speed (1.3 versus 2.0).

2. Make sure that you in 'System' (settings) have set the option in USB preference as 'PC hard drive'.

I don't think that waiting is the main issue. My drive usually gets recognised in seconds.

I am not sure if this will help you solve your problem, but I hope it does.

Thanks for the reply. The point you made regarding connecting to the original USB port did work up to a point in that my PC recognised the Archos, however it still would not open the hard drive, I had already selected the hard drive on systems, I just dont know. I have contacted Archos technical Dept. via e-mail and hope they can come up with something. The only other thing I can try, when I can get to it, is my laptop, it's in the loft which is accessed via a pull down ladder and my grandson is asleep at the moment so it is something I will try in the morning.
Thanks once again.

[frankmsl]

No problem. The only other thing I was thinking of is whether the USB port you are using is an older 1.3 version or the newer 2.0?
The Archos should work with both, but it is especially designed for the newer one.